KT&G Achieves Prestigious Dow Jones Best-in-Class Recognition for Sustainability for Two Years Running

KT&G, a leading company listed on the Korea Exchange under the ticker KRX: 033780, has made headlines by being included in the esteemed "Dow Jones Best-in-Class (DJBIC)" index for two consecutive years. This achievement underscores the company's commitment to sustainability, as it also encompasses inclusion in the "Asia Pacific" and "Korea" indices, recognizing its outstanding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.

The Dow Jones Sustainability Index, published annually, is a benchmark that gauges the sustainability performance of the world's largest corporations. Only the top 10% of corporations from the 2500 largest by market capitalization are awarded a place in the top-tier "World Index". KT&G has secured a leading position within its industry by demonstrating exemplary ESG performance, which was noted in various evaluations.

Dominating the ESG Landscape

KT&G's remarkable performance is attributed to its dedication to fostering sustainability across governance, environmental concerns, and social impact. The company has excelled in a variety of governance criteria, particularly in board independence and diversity policies, as well as establishing robust ESG governance structures.

In the environmental sector, KT&G developed a systematic approach to combat climate change, which has been reinforced by its "2030 Green Impact" environmental management vision. This expansive strategy not only enhances KT&G's ability to manage resources effectively but also significantly contributes to sustainable practices throughout the company.

On the social front, KT&G has prioritized human rights management, successfully scoring high on relevant performance measures. This commitment to social governance illustrates the company's broader efforts to engage responsibly with stakeholders and the community at large.

Last December, KT&G earned a substantial accolade for its ESG efforts, receiving a "AAA" rating from MSCI, a globally recognized investment information provider. This rating, awarded for the first time in the tobacco industry, complements the firm's sustainability initiatives and reinforces its reputation as a model for responsible corporate behavior.

Statements from Leadership

Young-ah Shim, the ESG management director at KT&G, expressed pride in the accomplishment, stating, "KT&G's effort to achieve sophisticated ESG management has been objectively evaluated and recognized by the global capital market, resulting in our inclusion in the World Index. We see this as an opportunity to strengthen our management practices further and fortify our business core while establishing trust with our stakeholders."

By being part of such prestigious indices, KT&G is not only improving its internal policies and practices but is also raising the bar for what it means to operate sustainably in the global marketplace. As the demand for corporate responsibility continues to grow, KT&G’s position in the DJBIC underscores its proactive approach to becoming a leader in sustainable business practices in the tobacco sector and beyond.

In conclusion, KT&G's dual recognition in various indices this year highlights significant advancements in sustainability strategy, governance, and social responsibility. As it continues to navigate the challenges of the industry with a forward-thinking approach, the company is poised to lead by example, showcasing its commitment to a sustainable future both within and outside its operational scope.